Military members, retirees, and their guests dance the night away at the Crowne Plaza for this year's 133rd Airlift Wing Military Ball, St. Paul, Minn., April 20, 2013. G.B Leighton, a local Minnesota band was the evening's entertainment as the guests danced. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kari Giles /Released)

ST. PAUL, Minn. - More than 450 military members, retirees, and their guests gathered at the Crowne Plaza to join in this year’s festivities at 133rd Airlift Wing’s Military Ball, April 20, 2013.

The theme of the evening, “Cultivating culture,” marked the Wing’s accomplishments and saluted those who are serving, gave thanks to those who have served, as well as paid a tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice before us.

A night for socializing and camaraderie, the evening began with a traditional posting of the colors, performed by the Base Honor Guard as the national anthem was sung. The honor guard also conducted a POW/MIA ceremony.

Following the formal dinner, Leah McLean, an anchor for Channel 5 News, shared her personal experiences being deployed with the Wing and gave thanks to the heroes sitting before her.

“I hope all of you here know how much we appreciate what you have done, and see you as the heroes that you are,” said McLean. “I’d like to thank you for letting me join you, thank you for your service, you are heroes!”

The formal portion of the evening concluded by Col. Greg Haase, Wing commander, expressing his appreciation to the airmen and their families for their hard work and continued dedication to the Guard.

“Open your heart, as Leah said you are all heroes in many ways, but open your heart to the fact that you serve, and give yourself to others,” said Haase. “Not everyone can do that and very few do, so be proud of that as you open your heart and continue to serve.”

Guests gathered afterwards to dance as G.B. Leighton, a local Minnesota band, played as the evening drew to a close.